Obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a crucial step for anyone looking to build a career in the trucking industry. However, the cost of CDL training can be a significant barrier. Fortunately, many trucking companies offer programs that cover the cost of CDL training in exchange for a commitment to work for the company for a specified period. This article provides an extensive overview of trucking companies that pay for CDL training, detailing their programs, requirements, and benefits.
Prime Inc.
Prime Inc. is one of the leading trucking companies offering paid CDL training through its Prime Student Driver (PSD) program. The program is designed to provide comprehensive training to new drivers.
- Training Duration: The PSD program typically lasts around four weeks.
- Cost: The training is free upfront, but there is a one-year employment agreement. If you leave before the year, you may be responsible for training costs.
- Requirements: Must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and pass a DOT physical and drug test.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, health benefits, and the opportunity to drive new equipment.
Swift Transportation
Swift Transportation offers a paid CDL training program that aims to help aspiring truck drivers get behind the wheel as quickly as possible.
- Training Duration: The training program typically lasts 3-4 weeks.
- Cost: No upfront costs. There is a 13-month commitment to work for Swift post-training.
- Requirements: Must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and meet Swift's hiring criteria.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, health benefits, and consistent freight availability.
CRST Expedited
CRST Expedited offers a unique program where new drivers can receive free CDL training and even get paid while they train.
- Training Duration: The program typically lasts about 2-4 weeks.
- Cost: No upfront costs. There is a 10-month contract to work for CRST post-training.
- Requirements: Must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and be able to pass a DOT physical and drug screening.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, tuition reimbursement, and health benefits.
Roehl Transport
Roehl Transport offers a paid CDL training program known as the "Get Your CDL" program, which is designed to attract new drivers to the industry.
- Training Duration: Typically takes around 4 weeks to complete.
- Cost: Training is free with an 18-month employment agreement.
- Requirements: Must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and pass Roehl's hiring standards.
- Benefits: Guaranteed weekly pay, health benefits, and a variety of driving opportunities.
Schneider National
Schneider National offers a CDL Apprenticeship Training (CAT) program, which is designed to help new drivers earn their CDL and gain experience.
- Training Duration: The program duration is typically 3-4 weeks.
- Cost: No upfront costs, with a commitment to work for Schneider for one year post-training.
- Requirements: Must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and meet Schneider’s hiring guidelines.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and job security.
KLLM Transport Services
KLLM Transport Services offers a paid CDL training program through their KLLM Driving Academy, which aims to produce highly skilled drivers.
- Training Duration: The program duration is approximately 3-4 weeks.
- Cost: No upfront costs with a one-year employment commitment.
- Requirements: Must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and pass a DOT physical and drug test.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, health benefits, and the opportunity to drive late-model equipment.
Millis Transfer
Millis Transfer offers a paid CDL training program that provides new drivers with the skills needed to succeed in the trucking industry.
- Training Duration: The training program lasts about 3-4 weeks.
- Cost: No upfront costs with a one-year employment agreement.
- Requirements: Must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and meet Millis Transfer’s hiring criteria.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, health benefits, and a family-oriented work environment.
Stevens Transport
Stevens Transport offers a CDL training program that covers the cost of training for new drivers willing to commit to working for the company.
- Training Duration: The program typically lasts around 3-4 weeks.
- Cost: No upfront costs with a one-year employment agreement.
- Requirements: Must be at least 22 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and pass Stevens Transport’s hiring criteria.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, health benefits, and the opportunity to drive late-model equipment.
Choosing the right CDL training program depends on your individual needs, career goals, and personal circumstances. By understanding the different programs offered by various trucking companies, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations in the trucking industry. Each company offers unique benefits and requirements, so consider what is most important to you as you embark on this new career path.
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